Coloccini still keen on Newcastle exit

Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini has reiterated his desire to return to Argentina "as soon as possible."

Coloccini, 31, first attempted to engineer a move back to his homeland in January, citing personal issues as his motivation.

With San Lorenzo - the club Coloccini spent a season on loan at in 2000-01 - eager to bring the defender back home to Argentina, an offer was submitted to Newcastle.

However with the Magpies eager to recoup at least half of the £10 million they paid Deportivo La Coruna, a deal was not reached.

Agreeing to remain at St James' Park at least until May, Coloccini has now once again stressed his intention to return to Argentina this summer.

"We did everything possible to return to Argentina, but obviously Newcastle have the final say," Coloccini told Ole. "They are the club that invested in me… and you have to respect that. The truth is I don't want to get my hopes up. Hopefully it will be as soon as possible."